The Principality of Monaco is located on the French Riviera in Western Europe. Monaco is the second smallest country in the world, with a total area of just 2.02 square kilometers and around 37,800 inhabitants.
Despite its small size, Monaco is home to the highest number of millionaires per capita in the world. The state is considered a tax haven, with low business taxes and no income tax. According to United Nations figures, it boasts the world’s second highest GDP per capita. Monaco’s economic development took off in the late 19th century, with the opening of its first casino and the establishment of a railway connection to Paris. Since then, the tiny city-state has grown into a popular high-end tourist destination, and is known around the world as a playground for the rich and famous.
Popular Attractions
Monte Carlo is the central quarter of the Principality of Monaco. The famous Carré d’Or is a glamorous area in the heart of the city, which is home to many elegant luxury boutiques. The Casino de Monte-Carlo is the world’s best-known casino. This ornate gambling house has featured in several movies, and is the most iconic building in Monaco. Other notable attractions include the Opéra de Monte-Carlo, Hotel de Paris, and the Café de Paris. A number of world-renowned annual events take place in Monte Carlo, including the Monaco Grand Prix, Monte Carlo Fashion Week, and the European Poker Tour grand final.
Another must-see area within the principality is Monaco City. Also known as The Rock, this historical district retains the architecture and atmosphere of a medieval village. Key landmarks include the Prince’s Palace, Saint Nicholas Cathedral, the Oceanographic Museum, St. Martin Gardens, the Museum of the Chapel of Visitation, and Fort Antoine Theatre.
Flying to Monaco
Monaco Heliport (IATA: MCM, ICAO: LNMC) is the only aviation facility within the Principality of Monaco. The state does not have an airport of its own. The nearest airport available is Nice Côte d’Azur Airport (IATA: NCE, ICAO: LFMN). Located 5.9km southwest of Nice, LFMN is the third busiest airport in France. Due to its close proximity, LFMN serves Monaco by offering regular helicopter shuttle services. The approximate flying time by helicopter from Nice Airport to Monaco Heliport is just seven minutes.
Nice Airport caters to General Aviation (GA) and functions as an Airport of Entry (AoE), with customs and immigration available on-site 24/7. Prior Permission Required (PPR) is mandatory for both arrivals and departures. Airport slots also need to be booked in advance. Once slots and PPR numbers have been obtained, aircraft parking can then be secured. Long-term parking is available, with no restrictions on the size of aircraft during the winter season. LFMN is fully equipped with ground support equipment, and can provide handling services for all aircraft types. An executive lounge is accessible for passengers and crew at the GA terminal. It is important to note that refueling cannot be done between 23:00 and 07:00 local time. Noise restrictions may also apply at night, depending on the type of aircraft. An aircraft noise certificate needs to be submitted, in order to determine if the aircraft is compliant with local regulations.
Processing times for permits and bookings vary according to the flight date. Air traffic is generally low during winter, until May. The most congested times of year are July and August. The end of May is also extremely busy, due to the Monaco Grand Prix and Cannes Film Festival. Operators arranging flights during these peak periods are strongly recommended to submit their request as early as possible, preferably before the beginning of April.
Cannes-Mandelieu Airport (IATA: CEQ, ICAO: LFMD) is located approximately 60km from the Principality of Monaco. LFMD caters to GA, and can serve as an AoE. The airport is open seven days a week. Operating times are from 08:00 to 20:00 during winter, and 07:00 until 30 minutes after sunset during summer. Slot bookings, PPR, and parking permits are mandatory only in May, during the Cannes Film Festival and Monaco Grand Prix. There are no restrictions to long-term parking. LFMD is fully equipped for all ground handling services, and offers two VIP lounges, one crew car, a crew lounge and snooze room. Operators will be asked to provide GenDec and passenger manifests for all flights. Flight arrangements can be made at any time, however it is advisable to book in advance, especially for the month of May.
Arrange Your Trip Today With Jetex
Jetex has established a strong presence in France, with exceptional FBOs located at Paris Le Bourget Airport (LFPB) and Marseilles Provence Airport (LFML). Our local expertise enables us to provide world-class support, tailored to your individual requirements. We will take care of all the technical details of your journey, allowing you to relax and enjoy your trip.
For further information, please contact our FBO teams in France:
Jetex Paris
Paris Le Bourget Airport
Tel: +33 17 437 2522
Email: fbo-lbg@jetex.com
Jetex Marseille
Aéroport Marseille Provence
Tel: +33 (0) 4 4289 5859
Email: fbo-mrs@jetex.com
